Child Sponsorship

What is the FIDA child sponsorship programme?

The basic idea behind the child sponsorship programme is to provide financial support directly to the family of a child, such that they can support his/her education. This support replaces the need for that child to either earn or beg an added income for the family.

FIDA is based within the community that this programme operates, and can guarantee that those worst off are first in line to receive this vital aid.

Sponsoring a child will ensure the provision of:

• A home to live in.
• Medical care when sick.
• School materials such as books and a uniform.
• Clothing and shoes.
• Blankets and bed sheets.

After experiencing the loss of both parents, FIDA believes that it is best to keep a child in familiar surroundings, amongst family and friends who otherwise could not afford their upkeep. Your generous donation will enable us to do that.

What information will I receive about the child I sponsor?

FIDA will provide the sponsor with

• a photo of their beneficiary, and
• update them on his/her progress over the course of the sponsorship.

Each child will also be told about his/her sponsor, and photos are massively appreciated.

Can I contact the child I sponsor?

In the interests of protecting the children we work with there are some guidelines we require you to adhere to when contacting the child you sponsor. However, contact is encouraged, and any emails or letters will be directed to the person in question via FIDA, translated when necessary. Visits can also be arranged when requested by the donor.

How long should I sponsor a child?

When you choose to sponsor a child, neither you, nor the children you sponsor are tied into a contract. However, we encourage donors to support their child for as long as they can. The longer a child is supported the better chance they have of reaching adulthood healthy, educated and providing a comfortable life for their future children.

Background

Many Ethiopian children have lost one or both of their parents. HIV/AIDS along with other illnesses has devastated the young adult population of Ethiopia leaving many children in a dire state of poverty.

The effect of these individual tragedies ensures that many of the newest generation of Ethiopians suffer from malnutrition & poor sanitation putting them at very high risk of succumbing to similar fate of their parent(s).

Without a provider, young children are forced out on the street either to beg or to try and earn whatever meagre income they can manage, making it almost impossible to receive any formal education, missing out on the chance of a better life.

Please consider partaking in this essential programme.